Major French brands pledge millions to rebuild Notre Dame

Several French firms such as LVMH, Kering, and L'Oreal have pledged millions to restore Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, after a fire broke out on Monday destroying key structural parts such as its spire. Apple too, will be donating for the reconstruction of the popular tourist destination with 850 year of heritage. In a statement on LVMH Group's website, the parent company of luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Bvlgari said that it will be donating a sum of 200 million euros. Additionally, the company is putting at the disposal of the state and the relevant authorities all its teams, including creative, architectural and financial specialists, to help with the work of reconstruction and fundraising. It said, "The Arnault family and the LVMH Group, in solidarity with this national tragedy, are committed to assist with the reconstruction of this extraordinary cathedral, symbol of France, its heritage and its unity." Meanwhile, the Pinault family, whose company Kering carries brands such as Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and Alexander McQueen, has pledged 100 million euros. Kering's Chairman and CEO Francois-Henri Pinault said to several media outlets, "This tragedy is striking all the French people, and beyond that, all those attached to spiritual values. Faced with this tragedy, everyone wishes to give life back to this jewel of our heritage as soon as possible." In a short tweet in French, cosmetics group L’Oreal, along with Bettencourt Meyers family, also announced that it will be donating 100 million euros for the repair of Notre Dame. Beyond French firms, Apple CEO Tim Cook has also come out to lend a helping hand. Expressing relief that no one was hurt as a result of the fire, he added in a tweet that Apple will be making a donation, without revealing the figure.We are heartbroken for the French people and those around the world for whom Notre Dame is a symbol of hope. Relieved that everyone is safe. Apple will be donating to the rebuilding efforts to help restore Notre Dame’s precious heritage for future generations.?? — Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 16, 2019  While the cause remains unknown for the fire, local prosecutors in Paris have ruled out arson and terrorism and are treating the case as an accident, according to media reports. The fire, which started in the attic, had caused no casualties other than one firefighter who was injured. Investigations are ongoing. Read more: LVMH inks a multi-million dollar deal with Rihanna Gucci’s parent company Kering brings digital functions in-house Kering gives up majority stake in Puma to focus on luxury brands Tim Apple gaffe by Trump sees the Apple CEO raking in positive sentiments L’Oréal’s ‘ad for men’ campaign shares why hiring female leaders is worth it (Photo courtesy of Notre Dame Cathedral)